Florida has been one of the fastest-growing states in the United States for several decades, making it one of the most populous states in the country. The state's population has been steadily increasing, driven by factors such as migration from other states and countries, natural population growth (births exceeding deaths), and a growing retirement population.
Florida attracts both domestic and international migrants. People from northern states, especially the Northeast and Midwest, have historically moved to Florida for retirement and better weather. International migration has come from countries in Latin America, the Caribbean, and other parts of the world.
Here, Yasmin Davis of Miami explores a few interesting factors and trends playing a role in Florida's long history of immigration.
In addition, Yasmin Davis notes that the state's economic policies, business-friendly environment, and lack of state income tax have attracted businesses and individuals from other states. Thus, urbanization and suburban sprawl have been characteristic of the state's growth, with many people moving to urban centers and their surrounding suburbs.
Florida has several major metropolitan areas, including Miami, Orlando, Tampa, and Jacksonville. These cities have experienced substantial population growth and urbanization, leading to increased infrastructure development and economic activity. These municipalities now serve as economic and cultural hubs, attracting both domestic and international migrants.
Florida is also home to a large and growing elderly population, particularly in areas like South Florida, Sarasota and Naples. This is due, in part, to retirees from other states moving to Florida for its warm climate and favorable tax environment.
Furthermore, Florida's elderly population includes many seasonal residents commonly referred to as snowbirds. These individuals often spend the winter months in Florida and return to their home states during the summer.
According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau in 2020, approximately 21% of Florida's population is aged 65 and older which is higher than the national average of 16.8%. This has led to the development of retirement communities and assisted living facilities in addition to an increase of geriatric services. Alongside the benefits, Florida faces challenges associated with an aging population, including healthcare demand, issues with affordable housing inventory for seniors, transportation needs and caregiving assistance.
Further contributing to Florida's urbanization is the state's status as a popular tourist destination, drawing visitors from around the world to its theme parks, beaches, and other attractions. Tourism has a significant impact on the state's economy and population, as it often leads to temporary residents and seasonal employment.
Tourism surges during peak vacation seasons. According to Governor Ron DeSantis, Florida welcomed over 137 million visitors in 2022, and that's in spite of a decline in international tourists due to vaccine requirements and a rise in visa wait times. It is worth noting that visitor spending supports the over 1.7 million tourism jobs in the state.
Miami and Tampa, in particular, have a large Cuban-American population. Due to economic challenges and natural disasters in Puerto Rico, there has been a notable migration of Puerto Ricans to Florida, especially the Orlando area. Additionally, there are sizable African American, Caribbean, and Asian communities throughout the state.
South Florida, in particular, has sizable Haitian and Caribbean immigrant communities. Many Haitian immigrants have settled in areas like Miami's Little Haiti neighborhood. Immigrants have played a significant role in Florida's economy, contributing to various industries. This diversity is also reflected in the state's culture and cuisine.
In addition, Florida has had a substantial undocumented immigrant population, but the exact numbers can be challenging to determine. Issues related to undocumented immigration have been a topic of debate in the state. According to estimates from the Migration Policy Institute (MPI) and Pew Research Center based on 2017 data, Florida was home to an estimated 775,000 to 850,000 unauthorized immigrants at the time.
Undocumented immigrants in Florida, like in many other states, have played a role in various sectors of the economy, including agriculture, construction, hospitality and healthcare. They often contribute through their labor and consumption, although their status can limit their employment options and benefits
Immigration policies at the federal level influence immigration trends in Florida. Changes in federal policies, such as those related to visas, refugee admissions, and deportation, have an impact on the state's immigrant population. Florida is home to a significant number of young immigrants who are beneficiaries of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. DACA provides temporary relief from deportation and work authorization for individuals who arrived in the U.S. as children and meet specific criteria.
Yasmin Davis of Miami finds that Florida has, at times, taken a hardline stance on immigration enforcement, and the policies related to immigration can vary at the state and local levels. Some local law enforcement agencies in Florida have cooperated with federal immigration authorities, while others have limited such cooperation. Various organizations and advocacy groups in Florida provide legal assistance, support, and resources to undocumented immigrants, including those facing immigration proceedings.
Florida's unique environmental conditions have had a significant effect on housing development, particularly along coastal areas. The lack of flood insurance availability and/or the skyrocketing costs of new insurance policies pose serious threats to the state's real estate market.
As the population has grown, Florida has had to invest in education, transportation, infrastructure, healthcare and sustainability in order to accommodate its residents and maintain quality of life.
But Yasmin mentions that it's important to recognize that population trends can change over time due to various factors, including economic conditions, demographic shifts, policy changes, and environmental patterns. Florida faces many challenges ahead. It's important for state and local governments to address these issues in order to manage its current and foreseeable growth.
